Coo, Pianist Golez in impressive Duetto

A presentation of Filfest headed by Vicky F. Zubiri, Duetto at the Insular Life Tower featured  top-rated instrumentalists Victor Michael Coo, cellist and Rudolf Golez, pianist.  In a widely diverse program of classic, romantic and modern compositions, their interpretations came from one mind, one heart, one spirit, from the closest most impeccable togetherness.

The initial number, Beethoven’s 12 Variations on “Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen” an aria from Mozart’s opera “Magic Flute” was utterly charming, the rendition showing Beethoven in a light, whimsical mood.  How exquisitely flowing was the opening of the romantic piece. “Adagio and Allegro” by Schumann, which later developed into intricate, complex passages highlighted by Coo.  This reviewer found De Falla’s familiar, light “Canciones Populares Españolas” particularly delightful for its melodies and fascinating insights into various aspects of Spanish life, the duo eloquently reflecting these with Latin flair and spirit.

Coo’s virtuosity as well as that of Golez were obviously manifested in Ginastera Pampeana  No. 2 Rhapsody for Piano and Cello.  It was indeed rhapsodic with its rapid rhythmic changes, arresting staccato accents, and a lode of pyro-technical devices so masterfully rendered by the duo.

The finale, Rachmaninoff’s Sonata in G Minor for Piano and Cello, favored the piano somewhat, the composer being a virtuoso concertist.  The composition alternated between lyrical and dramatic expressions, with its harmonic beauty predominating.

Each movement, from Lento, Andante to Allegro, was eloquently etched and delineated individually or by both performers, again conveying flawless rapport that reached a tumultuous climax. The standing ovation was repeated after the encore which was Ernesto Vallejo’s Cavatina.

Duetto affirmed how utterly impressive talents of sterling quality can be.

Coo prefaced each selection with explanatory remarks.